I would completely disagree with that... Even people who are 'trained mechanics' are often completely useless, even with the most simple of things! Anyway, regarding the thread... as far as a job goes, working in a bike shop isn't that bad. As someone said though, bikes can become your job instead of your passion if you're not careful. I'm not saying I would take the same decision (In fact I was in a very similar position and didn't - ended up with 4 A levels (proper old type ones, none of this AS shizzle ) and a degree) but make sure you consider all the other options from all angles as there may be something else more beneficial to you (and I'm not just taking about money) in the long run